'Generation X' Baths Express Need for Quiet Retreat

In fact, many designers are finding that Gen Xers' remodeling
preferences are not only as diverse as the group itself, but
reflect a sensibility that is not seen in any other
demographic.

That's the opinion of Jill C. Stumpf, CKD, for Park Ridge,
IL-based Kitchens, Baths & More, Inc., who notes that catering
to a Gen Xer's individual expression is key to creating a dream
bath. "The bathroom is moving from a functional room to a design
standpoint room," she says.

To that end, Gen Xers are choosing natural materials, such as
granite and limestone, often complemented by warm wood tones and
glass enclosures, she notes.

"They don't want the same bath as everyone else. [Most Gen Xers
will remodel their bath because] they simply don't like it," she
adds.

Leslie Thompson, ASID for Naples, FL-based Into the Mist, Inc.,
adds: "We've been through a long episode of Old World-looking
bathrooms and now people are changing to a more modern style, such
as smooth panel doors with no added increments such as paneling or
crown molding."

"They want a clean look, like a European or Asian look with a
slab door," adds Amy Gooden, sales and design for Pacific, MO-based
Archway & Bath. "They also want more luxurious materials, such
as stone and granite slabs on the walls and showers."

But, that is not to say that they will mortgage their future to
create the ideal space, says Stumpf.

"If someone wants the carerra marble sink, they will spend the
money but they then may request a low-end toilet. It's not so much
how much the item costs, but whether the product is worth it to
each person."

He concludes: "We're getting rid of the seventies and eighties
style in the Gen X bath. Today, it's more of a stylistic thing.
They do not want the bathroom they grew up in."

Donny and MarieFor Gooden, the need for
personal space in Gen X baths is leading to unique design
applications.

"We're doing at least two bowls in master baths," she offers.
"If they have a larger space, then we definitely separate the
two."

Allison adds: "My clients are more into size and open space,
whereas older clients want everything crammed into a smaller
space," he explains. "[Generally,] each person wants their own
[his-and-hers] space in a large, open bathroom. So, the trend is
toward a lot of openness, light and room."

Stumpf cites a recent bath she designed as an example of this
idea. "For this Asian-influenced bath, we opened up the space and
created a built-in closet with a cabinetry face on it. We also
installed a stackable washer and dryer and added a large glass
shower and a separate whirlpool soaking tub. There were also some
unique furniture-type pieces," she describes.
Michael Boyette, CKD, CR, of Boyette Kitchens & Baths, Inc.,
based in Bloomfield, NJ, offers his own perspective: "I see that
people want larger walk-in showers, heavy series glass enclosures
and frameless shower design."

Allison agrees: "We did a bath once that had a lot of clear
glass, stone and warm tones. We've also done a large glass-free
bath and have also put in a couple of steam showers."

Gooden adds: "I would say most of the Gen Xers are looking at a
barrier-free type shower. They're also going with the taller access
to the vanity."

Stumpf offers: "The thing that I am seeing in my area is the
revival bathroom, which incorporates a lot of claw-foot tubs and
huge glass showers. These showers have all of the modern
conveniences."

Schoolhouse rockThere is an abundance of
natural stone being used in Gen X bathrooms, according to Boyette.
"We're doing a lot more tile work, using natural stone and more
tiles in the shower to the ceiling. Also, we're doing decorative
tiles, borders and decos. The countertops are still all granite or
some sort of stone material," he offers.

Adds Thompson, "In our area, the only countertop being used is
stone, such as granite."

Allison offers: "We're seeing a lot of natural materials and
tumbled marble. We will do tile backsplashes and floors or showers
with solid stone countertops and tub decks."

Dalton continues: "Tile seems to be very popular both for the
shower and the floor. For countertops, people are choosing granite
and solid surface for a high-end look."

Allison also suggests that Gen Xers seem to be shying away from
finishes such as chrome and brass, electing for more traditional
colors such as oil-rubbed bronze and satin pewter finishes.

Gooden agrees: "Yellow is hot in the kitchen and the bath, and
finishes are featuring more creamy, earthy tones."
Boyette adds, "We're definitely seeing more traditional colors,
such as natural, muted tones."

Thompson sees the trend going in a slightly different direction,
however, noting: "We're seeing lighter and more vibrant colors
being chosen by Gen Xers."

Dalton concludes, "[Overall,] it seems that Gen Xers are not
afraid to use color in their bath. [The bottom line is] they just
want more style and an updated look."